"Sorry You Were Consumed by Hate," Infantino Hits Back at His Critics

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has issued a strong defence of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a series of posts shared through his personal social media account and FIFA's official platforms, Infantino responds to FIFA critics by arguing that public debate overlooked the tournament's wider achievements.

Reflecting on the competition, Infantino said the tournament demonstrated football's ability to bring people together. He also addressed those who questioned the event, writing: "To all of you who missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game, I say sorry that the matches are now over and sorry that you missed all that joy and togetherness.

"Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all."

Visa Concerns and Security Defended

Among the issues raised during the tournament were visa restrictions that affected supporters, officials and match personnel from several countries. Some referees and travelling fans were unable to enter the United States, prompting criticism of tournament logistics.

Infantino hits back to his critics by pointing to the overall scale of the event rather than isolated cases. He said around seven million supporters from more than 200 countries attended the World Cup and praised the host nations for maintaining what he described as a "100 percent safety and security" record throughout the competition.

"You mentioned the few people denied visas and overlooked the millions who were approved, from all parts of the world," Infantino said. "Because football unites the world, and it was demonstrated impressively this summer."

Disciplinary Controversy Also Addressed

Infantino also commented on wider criticism surrounding refereeing and disciplinary decisions after the tournament, including debate over the reversal of Folarin's suspension following his dismissal against Bosnia-Herzegovina. The decision attracted attention after US President Donald Trump revealed he had spoken with Infantino during the tournament.

Without referring directly to the case, Infantino argued that disputed refereeing calls and disciplinary rulings are common across major domestic competitions and should not be viewed differently on the international stage.

"'Arguable' referees' decisions or 'strange' disciplinary rulings such as for instance potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or subsequent decisions not to ban players in certain situations are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide.

"It's curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising."